Darren Burke

It will be a real family affair for one Doncaster clan at this year’s London Marathon. For dad Mark Midgley will be in good company when he heads for the start line in the capital on Sunday - and that’s because he will be accompanied by four of his sons.

50-year-old Mark will line up with Jaimie, 31, Daniel,29, Kyle, 26 and Taylor, 23 - and the five strong team are hoping to smash into the Guinness Book of Records by claiming the title of fastest marathon run by a parent and four children.

The Wheatley father of seven has tackled the famous London course a few years ago - but this will be the first time they have tackled the 26 mile and 385 yard route as one - with funds raised by their efforts going to the Royal British Legion.

Mum Joanna said: “Mark got a place through the ballot and he was asked by the RBL if he’d like places for his four sons as well if they’d be able to raise some money.

“They are all looking forward to it and I think they will be quite competitive to see who can get the best time and get across the line first.”

But she added: “Mark has told them they should all do it together with no-one running off on their own!”

The family have raised over £5000 so far and will be bidding to beat a time of four hours 30 minutes to secure their place in the record books.

The four lads aren’t afraid of a tough challenge however - all of them served in the Armed Forces.

Jaimie was in the Royal Engineers, Daniel served with the Royal Logistics Corp, Kyle was in the Royal Marines and Taylor was in the Royal Air Force.

Mark said: “Deciding to run the marathon has brought the family closer together.”

Added Joanna: “The training has been gouing well. There have been a couple of injuries here and there and they’ve got aching knees but they are all on track to do it.”

You can support their fundraising efforts for the Royal British Legion at www.virginmoneygiving.com/TeamMidge